Donate

Smithsonian Libraries' Adopt-a-Book Program

The Smithsonian Libraries’ Adopt-a-Book Program provides essential funding to support the conservation, acquisition, and digitization of books and manuscripts held by the world’s largest museum complex and research institution. Your donation allows the Smithsonian Libraries to continue to build the collection, preserve it for future generations, and make materials available to curious minds around the world through digitization.

Book adoptions are an excellent way to commemorate an occasion, celebrate a milestone, or honor a great achievement, while supporting the mission of the Smithsonian Libraries. When you adopt a book, you will be acknowledged via a virtual bookplate in our online catalog and on a physical bookplate in your selected item. Adoptions of $500 or more will allow for participation in the Smithsonian Libraries Society, our giving program that provides exclusive engagement opportunities for annual Smithsonian Libraries supporters.

If you would like to adopt a book in honor of or in memory of someone, please indicate this during your adoption. All Adopt-a-Book donations are tax-deductible. Donors will receive a gift acknowledgment from the Smithsonian Libraries Advancement Office and a tax receipt from the Smithsonian Institution.